United 'not good enough' in derby hammering says Rooney

Samir Nasri celebrates scoring Manchester City's fourth goal during their 4-1 win over Manchester United at the Etihad Stadium

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Wayne Rooney says Manchester United’s performance in Sunday’s derby-day hammering by Manchester City was simply not good enough.

Manchester United were beaten 4-1 by Manuel Pellegrini’s Manchester City side, the Red Devils' worst away loss in the fixture since 2004.

Out-maneouvred in midfield, where £27.5million new-boy Marouane Fellaini was a particular disappointment, the Red Devils conceded three goals in a six-minute spell either side of half-time that left them staring down the barrel of total humiliation.

As it turned out, a combination of City easing off and Wayne Rooney grabbing a late consolation meant the damage was not as extensive as had appeared likely.

Still, for a team used to setting such high standards, Rooney knows the performance was not acceptable.

“It is not good enough,” the 27-year-old said.

“We know we have to improve and stop giving these sloppy goals away.

“It is not nice to lose to City. It was a bad result and we are all extremely disappointed.”

Manchester United manager David Moyes excused Wayne Rooney from blame, claiming the England man did not deserve to be on the losing side.

His goal - a fourth in three games - means he has now become the highest scorer in derby matches with 11.

It is not an accolade from which he is taking much pleasure.

“It is nice to score but it means nothing,” he said.

“The most important thing today was the points and we have come away with none.”

Following the tough baptism he has endured as Manchester United boss, David Moyes finds his side paired together with Liverpool in the Capital One Cup as well.

Liverpool will be bolstered by the return of Luis Suarez, giving an additional twist to an already high-octane occasion.

But Wayne Rooney recognises it provides the perfect opportunity for Manchester United to bounce back.

“We have all grown up, whether it is Manchester, Liverpool or somewhere else having local derbies,” said Rooney.

“It is not nice when you lose one. I have been there as a fan and now as a player.

“Thankfully we have another massive game against Liverpool.

“It is the ideal game for us. Any game against Liverpool, whether it is a friendly, Capital One Cup or Premier League, is massive.

“We have to try and get the victory so we can put this defeat to the back of our minds.”